Mama's Day with Little Gray by Aimee Reid -- ESSENTIAL

Reid, Aimee Mama's Day with Little Gray, illustrated by Laura J. Bryant. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2014. $16.99. Content: G

"If I grew up and you were my calf," Little Gray tells his mother, "I'd spend every day with you." His mother agrees that that would be wonderful indeed. As they wander along the savannah, Little Gray details all the other ways in which he would take care of Mama if their roles were reversed.

This sweet little picture book is perfect for reading aloud right before bed, especially for toddlers and pre-schoolers. It has a similar tone to Guess How Much I Love You, with its loving, back-and-forth banter between parent and child, as well as the comforting ending (but minus the competitive vibe).

Pre-K -- ESSENTIAL Reviewer: Caryn